Gabon | The Guardianhttp://www.theguardian.com/world/gabon
Latest news and features from theguardian.com, the world's leading liberal voiceen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015Mon, 03 Aug 2015 01:01:45 GMT2015-08-03T01:01:45Zen-gbGuardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. 2015The Guardianhttp://assets.guim.co.uk/images/guardian-logo-rss.c45beb1bafa34b347ac333af2e6fe23f.pnghttp://www.theguardian.com
Gabon denies paying Barcelona’s Lionel Messi £2.5m for Ali Bongo visithttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jul/22/lionel-messi-gabon-barcelona-ali-bongo
• Argentina forward helped lay a stone at venue for 2017 Cup of Nations<br />• Messi criticised for turning up wearing denim shorts and a T-shirt<p>The Gabonese government have denied claims that Barcelona’s Lionel Messi was paid €3.5m (&pound;2.5m) to visit the country to take part in a ceremony at one of the venues for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jul/22/luis-suarez-barcelona-la-galaxy-steven-gerrard">Luis Su&aacute;rez goal helps Barcelona defeat Steven Gerrard’s LA Galaxy</a> </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jul/22/lionel-messi-gabon-barcelona-ali-bongo">Continue reading...</a>Lionel MessiFootballSportBarcelonaAfricaWorld newsGabonWed, 22 Jul 2015 08:33:06 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jul/22/lionel-messi-gabon-barcelona-ali-bongoPhotograph: Stringer/REUTERSThe Gabon president Ali Bongo shakes the hand of Lionel Messi in Port-Gentil. Photograph: Stringer/ReutersPhotograph: Stringer/REUTERSThe Gabon president Ali Bongo shakes the hand of Lionel Messi in Port-Gentil. Photograph: Stringer/ReutersEd Aarons2015-07-22T08:33:06ZGabon named hosts of 2017 Africa Cup of Nations after beating rival bidshttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/apr/08/gabon-2017-africa-cup-nations
• Gabon beat Algeria and Ghana for right to host tournament<br />• Nation replaces Libya who withdrew as hosts due to civil conflict<p>Gabon has been named as the host for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations, beating off bids from Algeria and Ghana and considered in a vote at a meeting Confederation of African Football’s executive committee in Cairo.</p><p>Gabon steps in following <a href="http://www.cafonline.com/en-US/NewsCenter/News/NewsDetails?id=rHQkXwbJ%2FqnlkT0kYVKcMg%3D%3D" title="">Libya’s withdrawal last year</a> because of civil conflict in the country.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/apr/08/gabon-2017-africa-cup-nations">Continue reading...</a>Africa Cup of NationsGabonAfricaFootballFootball politicsSportWed, 08 Apr 2015 13:29:45 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/apr/08/gabon-2017-africa-cup-nationsPhotograph: Hassan Ammar/APA CAF executive meeting, attended by Sepp Blatter and Issa Hayatou, voted for Gabon to host the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations. Photograph: Hassan Ammar/APPhotograph: Hassan Ammar/APA CAF executive meeting, attended by Sepp Blatter and Issa Hayatou, voted for Gabon to host the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations. Photograph: Hassan Ammar/APReuters2015-04-08T13:29:45Z'The worst of journalism': 200 writers and academics slam CBS coverage of Africahttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/26/cbs-africa-howard-french
<p>An <a href="http://www.howardwfrench.com/2015/03/how-does-africa-get-reported-a-letter-of-concern-to-60-minutes/">open letter</a> accuses American broadcaster of rendering Africans ‘voiceless and all but invisible’ in its portrayal of the continent</p><p>Dear Mr Fager,</p><p>We, the undersigned, are writing to express our grave concern about the frequent and recurring misrepresentation of the African continent <a href="http://www.cbs.com/shows/60_minutes/">by 60 Minutes</a>.</p><p>This anachronistic style of coverage reproduces many of the worst habits of modern American journalism on Africa</p><p>We would like see to 60 Minutes rethink its approach to Africa, and rise to the challenge of covering topics like these</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/26/cbs-africa-howard-french">Continue reading...</a>AfricaEbolaMediaWorld newsSouth AfricaGabonTelevisionCultureTelevision & radioThu, 26 Mar 2015 16:03:07 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/26/cbs-africa-howard-frenchPhotograph: Baz Ratner/ReutersHealth workers outside a quarantine zone at a Red Cross facility in the town of Koidu, Sierra Leone in December.Photograph: Baz Ratner/ReutersHealth workers outside a quarantine zone at a Red Cross facility in the town of Koidu, Sierra Leone in December.Howard French2015-03-26T16:03:07ZIsrael elections: Herzog concedes to Netanyahu after Likud takes most seatshttp://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2015/mar/17/israel-elections-netanyahu-herzog-voters-coalition-knesset
<ul><li>Likud poised to form government after winning 30 seats</li><li>Opposition leader Isaac Herzog calls Netanyahu to congratulate him</li><li>Netanyahu had appealed to right wing by rejecting Palestinian statehood</li></ul><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T10:15:47.432Z">6.15am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>David Cameron has become one of the first world leaders to congratulate Netanyahu.</p><p>PM: Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu">@netanyahu</a> on election result. As one of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash">#Israel</a>’s firmest friends, UK looks forward to working with new government.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T09:43:40.355Z">5.43am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Now that the results of the election is clear we are going to bring the blog to a close. Here’s a summary:</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T09:14:36.748Z">5.14am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Back in early February Netanyahu’s opponents “looked to be a team facing an open goal and poised to miss”, according to the <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/feb/06/israel-netanyahu-election">Guardian’s Jonathan Freedland.</a> And so it proved. </p><p>After a trip to the opposition party, he wrote: </p><p>A visit to their HQ suggested a low-energy campaign, lacking the sheer hunger necessary to oust a bare-knuckle fighter like Bibi. Herzog has a version of Ed Miliband syndrome: the smart scion of Labour aristocracy who just doesn’t look like a prime minister. The Haaretz political correspondent Barak Ravid says Herzog is leading a “bad campaign, that’s disorganised, lacking in creativity and with nothing on the ground”. He has failed to capitalise on the inequality issue or to channel the public’s deep frustration, despite promoting several leaders of the 2011 protests to Labour’s senior ranks.</p><p>But the problem goes deeper. “Bibi is still the authentic voice of the majority of Israelis,” says the author Tom Segev. The one thing no Israeli ever wants to be is a<a href="http://www.thejc.com/judaism/jewish-words/freier"><em>freier</em></a> – a sucker, a naive fool who’s taken in. Even if Israelis dislike Netanyahu and despise his wife, they don’t fear that he will be a <em>freier</em> in negotiations with the Palestinians or anyone else. An Israeli electorate still on its guard, still anxious about personal security – however irrational that may seem to people far away – might well conclude that it’s safer with Bibi than with the untested <em>freier</em>-in-waiting they detect in Herzog.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T08:58:16.447Z">4.58am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Many in Britain’s Labour party have expressed despondency at Likud’s victory.</p><p>Shadow health secretary Andy Burnham said Netanyahu’s victory was “depressing”.</p><p>Depressing news coming out of Israel. Netanyahu elected on pledge to build more settlements. Palestine will need more international support.</p><p>Pity about Israel election result <a href="https://twitter.com/BBCNews">@BBCNews</a> No prospect of change in the region under this leadership!</p><p>Deflated &amp; disappointed that Bibi's fear-mongering, anti-Arab attacks &amp; failure to tackle israelis econ issues won the day. Blow for peace.</p><p>Grim final results in Israeli election seems likely a government without saving graces After Bibi's statements UK/EU will need to get firmer</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T08:40:26.669Z">4.40am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Iran expects business as usual under Netanyahu’s next government.</p><p>In a frosty reaction, Iran’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Marzieh Afkham said all of Israeli parties had an “aggressive nature.”</p><p>The Israeli parties are the same and they are all accomplices in their crimes against the Palestinians and in their acts of aggression. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T08:23:57.772Z">4.23am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Some historical context from <strong>Peter Beaumont </strong>...</p><p>The 2015 Israeli elections and Binyamin Netanyahu’s unexpected win appear, the morning after, to be as significant as two previous historic wins for Israel’s right. </p><p>The first in 1977 saw Likud’s Menachem Begin defeat Labour to become prime minister for the first time after a wait of 28 years since Israel’s founding. </p><p>Bibi unreal. '96 went to bed thinking Peres won, woke up to PM Bibi; 2009 Livni got more votes but PM Bibi. Now, Bibi trailed but prevailed.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T08:20:54.877Z">4.20am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>One of Europe’s most senior diplomats, Carl Bildt, the former prime minister of Sweden has expressed alarm about Netanyahu’s victory.</p><p>In a tweet he said it risked a “profound crisis on [the] Palestinian issue”. </p><p>A new <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu">@netanyahu</a> government in Israel risks profound crisis on Palestinian issue. Difficult to see any credible political path forward.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T08:08:05.872Z">4.08am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Chemi Shalev in Haaretz argues that <a href="http://www.haaretz.com/news/israel-election-2015/.premium-1.647495">Netanyahu’s victory comes at a heavy international price</a>: </p><p>The term “to burn your bridges” comes from the days of Roman conquests, when generals such as Julius Caesar would burn the bridges and set fire to the boats on which their soldiers traveled, in order to prevent them from contemplating retreat. Without the bridges and boats, of course, it was very difficult to resupply the legions after the battle had been won. Today, if you burn your bridges, you are severing contacts that you might very well need somewhere down the line.</p><p>That’s what Benjamin Netanyahu did on the way to his surprise victory over Isaac Herzog on Tuesday.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T08:02:27.918Z">4.02am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Netanyahu succeeded in mobilising those alarmed by the prospect of a left wing victory in last stages of the campaign, according <a href="http://www.jpost.com/landedpages/printarticle.aspx?id=394300">Gil Hoffman in the Jerusalem Post.</a> </p><p>He looked like he was panicking (and he was) but the public got the message. </p><p>Many who considered staying home or for voting for one of the Likud’s satellite parties hurried to the polling stations to cast ballots for Likud. People who have not voted-in years- or at least not for Likud- felt the need to save Israel from the Left, Iran and from a hostile international community. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T07:47:39.704Z">3.47am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>The reason why the result is something of a surprise is that the opinion polls got it so wrong, as <strong>Peter Beaumont</strong> explains. </p><p>The failure of Israel’s pollsters to predict the surge to Netanyahu was striking. Taking the worst case scenario for Likud on Friday - when polls closed - and the final result, pollsters were adrift by 10 seats out of 120, an error of over 8 percent. </p><p>Even the exit polls, which had Netanyahu and Herzog tied at 27 seats each, appeared - in their spread - to have missed the real voting trends by some 5%.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T07:38:54.908Z">3.38am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>The process of forming a new government could take up to three weeks, according to Likud after it emerged as the party with 29 seats. In a party statement, quoted by Ynet, it said Netanyahu had spoken with the leaders of all parties likely to feature in the coalition.<a href="http://www.ynetnews.com/articles/0,7340,L-4638250,00.html"> They including Habayit Hayehudi (eight seats), Kulanu (10 seats), Yisrael Beytenu (six seats), Shas (seven seats) and United Torah Judaism (six seats). </a></p><p>Taken together the parties mentioned would control 66 seats in the Knesset – comfortably over the 61 seats necessary to form a government. </p><p>Why the Israeli election results are great news for Netanyahu, in one chart <a href="http://t.co/3jAnyshdGD">http://t.co/3jAnyshdGD</a> <a href="http://t.co/vy7SmNb9wp">pic.twitter.com/vy7SmNb9wp</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T07:08:19.323Z">3.08am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Herzog has made his concession phonecall to Netanyahu. This from Peter Beaumont:</p><p>Israel’s opposition leader, Isaac Herzog, said on Wednesday he had spoken with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to congratulate him on his election victory.</p><p>“A few minutes ago I spoke with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and congratulated him on his achievement and wished him luck,” Herzog told reporters.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T06:50:53.857Z">2.50am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/profile/peterbeaumont">Peter Beaumont</a> has been up early and is sending us his analysis of Netanyahu’s spectacular turnaround in fortune.</p><p>We will have the full version up in a while – meanwhile here’s a taste of Peter’s take on things:</p><p>Netanyahu might head up the next government but even he must know that he is not a leader of all of Israel as he has tried to claim.</p><p>That will increase pressure on him to persuade Moshe Kahlon, the former Likud minister turned leader of the centrist Kulanu party who campaigned on socioeconomic issues, to join his coalition.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T06:24:33.338Z">2.24am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>And here is the BBC veteran correspondent Jeremy Bowen’s take on that result</p><p>In the end <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Netanyahu?src=hash">#Netanyahu</a> scored a much bigger victory than incorrect polls suggested. Showed his political skill, and mastery of scare tactics.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T06:11:27.744Z">2.11am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Our Jerusalem correspondent <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/profile/peterbeaumont">Peter Beaumont</a> has just filed his update on the result: </p><p>Most Israelis had gone to sleep on Tuesday night with three television exit polls showing the two main parties tied at around 27 seats each in the 120 seat Knesset and expecting weeks of horse trading between the Israeli parties to try and negotiate a government.</p><p>But by early on Wednesday morning it was becoming clear that the exit polls had underestimated turnout for Likud which had mobilised support in recent days.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T06:08:19.651Z">2.08am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>So words so far seen that describe Netanyahu’s victory: </p><p>Associated Press: “Resounding”</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T05:42:56.057Z">1.42am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><a href="http://www.jpost.com/Israel-Elections/Netanyahu-invites-nationalist-ultra-Orthodox-parties-for-coalition-talks-394284">The Jerusalem Post reports</a> a statement from Netanyahu calling for parters to begin immediate coalition talks:</p><p>“The reality isn’t waiting on us,” Netanyahu said just hours after it became clear that his Likud party had scored a decisive victory over Zionist Union in Tuesday’s poll. “Reality isn’t taking a break. The citizens of Israel expect us to quickly put together a leadership that will work for the sake of the country’s security, economy, and society as we promised to do, and that is what I will do.”</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T05:26:59.763Z">1.26am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Reuters has just put out its morning file on the result and calls it pretty much like us. Here’s a taster: </p><p>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud party swept past its main rival, the centre-left Zionist Union, after nearly all votes were counted in Israel’s election on Wednesday. </p><p>Israeli media described the showing as a “huge win” for Netanyahu, with the formation of a government still dependent on coalition negotiations among the country’s diverse political parties. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T05:07:46.024Z">1.07am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>For a pretty good summary of what happened while you were asleep (or awake if you are in the global east) <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2015/mar/17/israel-elections-netanyahu-herzog-voters-coalition-knesset#block-5508ee05e4b0b2716932e30a">have a look at our earlier roundup</a>.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T04:55:40.697Z">12.55am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>It’s fair to say that a Netanyahu victory will not be greeted with universal joy in the White House. He had managed to anger Barack Obama (again) by using a speech to congress to try to derail delicate nuclear negotiations with the Iranians. </p><p>But it is also his last minute attempt to persuade the extreme right to sign up to his cause – by rejecting outright a Palestinian State – that will worry many. </p><p><em>Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s outright <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/17/world/middleeast/benjamin-netanyahu-campaign-settlement.html">rejection of a Palestinian state</a> and his racist rant <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2015/03/18/world/middleeast/netanyahu-israel-elections-arabs.html">against Israeli Arab voters</a> on Tuesday showed that he has forfeited any claim to representing all Israelis.</em></p><p><em>His behaviour in the past six years — aggressively building Israeli homes on land that likely would be within the bounds of a Palestinian state and never engaging seriously in negotiations — has long convinced many people that he has no interest in a peace agreement. But his statement this week laid bare his duplicity, confirmed Palestinian suspicions and will make it even harder for him to repair his poisoned relations with President Obama, who has invested heavily in pushing a two-state solution.</em><br /></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T04:13:51.198Z">12.13am <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>It may well be there will be an inquest into the pre-election polls after today. Indeed there is already considerable discussion about why they were so off the pace.</p><p>Some point out it could have been an accurate reflection of opinion at the time – and that opinion was fickle.</p><p>There may not have been a error. Last week's polls could have been an accurate snapshot when they were made and caused a massive backlash /1</p><p>Likud somehow manages to pull off landslide victory over Zionist Union in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraElex?src=hash">#IsraElex</a>. All polls were way off.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T03:52:07.268Z">11.52pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Nice simple visualisation here of the extent of the Likud victory – as well as where most of the other parties stand.</p><p>Final results, based on over 96% of votes (Still without soldiers etc..) - Over 4 million votes. <a href="http://t.co/5FwocD0M82">pic.twitter.com/5FwocD0M82</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T03:25:09.402Z">11.25pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2015/mar/17/israel-elections-netanyahu-herzog-voters-coalition-knesset#block-5508e181e4b0b2716932e301">With almost all votes counted</a> in Israel’s election, here is what we know so far:<br /></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T03:06:36.853Z">11.06pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Unsurprisingly, <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2015/mar/17/israel-elections-netanyahu-herzog-voters-coalition-knesset#block-5508e181e4b0b2716932e301">given the figures below</a>, media in Israel is now calling this election for Netanyahu:</p><p>right, I think we can call this. Netanyahu wins a 4th term. <a href="http://t.co/bGHvlhhKiK">http://t.co/bGHvlhhKiK</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T02:58:42.851Z">10.58pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><a href="http://www.haaretz.com/news/israel-election-2015/1.647304">Haaretz reports</a> that with 99.5% of votes counted, Likud leads with 30 Knesset seats. Zionist Union has 24. </p><p>The Joint Arab List comes in third with 13 seats, followed by:</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T02:04:17.511Z">10.04pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>With over 90% of votes counted, the energy of this election is swinging back towards Netanyahu.</p><p>Of Friday the polls were nearly unanimous that Netanyahu was down by 4 seats. 100 hours later after 90% counted he's up by 6. What a swing!</p><p>We'll never how much of the 9% swing was down to massive polling error &amp; how much Netanyhu's fear mongering endgame. Either way astonishing!</p><p>With just 40,000 votes left to tally, Likud crushes Zionist Union with a nearly 180,000 vote lead. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraElex?src=hash">#IsraElex</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T01:55:31.909Z">9.55pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>With 90% of votes counted, <a href="https://twitter.com/Nehemia_G/status/578010679048704001">the latest tally is</a>:</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T01:39:53.979Z">9.39pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Some 80% of votes cast have now been counted, putting Likud on 30 seats and Zionist Union on 24.</p><p>Centre-left Yesh Atid currently has 11 seats, just ahead of Moshe Kahlon’s centrist Kulanu on 10.</p><p>Updated real results - above 80% <a href="http://t.co/GsSIZaa0uT">pic.twitter.com/GsSIZaa0uT</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T01:27:37.157Z">9.27pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>A reminder from the editor of the UK’s Channel 4 News that exit polls don’t always get it right:</p><p>In 1996 was <a href="https://twitter.com/SkyNews">@SkyNews</a>. Exit polls said Peres had won. Netanyahu won by 29k votes,&lt;l%. &quot;went to sleep with Peres, woke up with Netanyahu.</p><p><a href="https://twitter.com/speechboy71">@speechboy71</a> Don't worry about low show for left. Big cities where left is strong closed ballots late. Left's show will rally toward morning</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T01:04:43.442Z">9.04pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Another update from the count:</p><p>w/ over 3m votes tallied in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/israelex?src=hash">#israelex</a>, Zionist Union continues rally. Now at 19.3% to Likud's 24.1%. Yesh Atid at 9% in 3rd place</p><p>Election returns show Likud with lead on Zionist Union, unike 2 exit polls that showed them tied: 24% of vote compared to 19%</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T00:56:07.546Z">8.56pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>My colleague <strong>Jonathan Freedland</strong> <a href="https://twitter.com/Freedland/status/577995341615796224">flags up</a> <a href="http://m.apnews.com/ap/db_307124/contentdetail.htm?contentguid=6FSLISJB">this analysis from Associated Press</a>,<br />predicting “international isolation” for Israel after this election result:</p><p> Israel’s election has yielded a fractured parliament and no clear winner, setting up a horse-trading phase that seems likely to leave prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu in place and in ever deeper confrontation with the world. To govern, his Likud party would need to depend on ultranationalists – a recipe for neither stability nor bold moves toward Mideast peace.<br /></p><p>There are also other scenarios: the outcome could be a joint government with moderate challenger Isaac Herzog. And there is the slimmest of chances that Herzog, through machinations, still ends up on top.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-18T00:24:41.223Z">8.24pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>With <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2015/mar/17/israel-elections-netanyahu-herzog-voters-coalition-knesset#block-55089676e4b0122a1c712205">71.8% of Israel’s 5.8 million eligible citizens</a> having voted, the count is approaching halfway:</p><p>Just over 2m votes counted: Likud 24.6%, Zionist Union 18.8%, Yesh Atid 8.7%, Joint List 8.3%, Kahlon 7.6%, Jewish Home 6.2% <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraElex?src=hash">#IsraElex</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T23:58:01.717Z">7.58pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Pictures are arriving of the party leaders following the exit polls. Prime minister <strong>Binyamin Netanyahu</strong> told Likud supporters that the party had scored a “great victory”:</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T23:47:28.228Z">7.47pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>This is <strong>Claire Phipps</strong> taking over the blog from my colleague <strong>Alan Yuhas</strong>. We will have ongoing live coverage from tonight’s momentous election as results continue to be counted.</p><p>Reuters has put together this analysis on the numbers and negotiations that will now follow in the wake of tonight’s predicted dead heat:</p><p>Difficult coalition talks still lie ahead. <strong>Isaac Herzog</strong>, Netanyahu’s chief opponent and head of the centre-left Zionist Union, said “everything is still open” and that he already had spoken to party leaders about forming a government.</p><p><strong>Binyamin Netanyahu</strong> could have the easier path to forming a cabinet, which would put him on course to becoming Israel’s longest serving leader.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T23:13:34.592Z">7.13pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>A quick summary as the clock strikes 1am in Israel, the politicians head home and the exit polls continue to adjust their counts.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T23:06:19.429Z">7.06pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu is delivering a speech to Likud supporters, who are showering him with adoration.</p><p>“You’re all important, your’e all important to me. Now we must form a stable coalition that will ensure our security,” he says.</p><p>Netanyahu, in speech at Likud, talks of being proud of all citizens, Arab and Jewish. Clearly trying to strike conciliatory tone.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:56:45.108Z">6.56pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Netanyahu is now taking the stage at the Likud headquarters for his own post-election speech.</p><p>BIBI To address likudniks now <a href="http://t.co/oYfQehEFQ1">pic.twitter.com/oYfQehEFQ1</a></p><p>Netanyahu is literally walking across the stage and waving like Miss America</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:48:44.743Z">6.48pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Zionist Union won’t declare victory yet</strong>, a la Likud’s Binyamin Netanyahu, co-founder Tzipi Livni <a href="https://twitter.com/ElliottGotkine/status/577962368346374144">tells</a> Bloomberg’s Elliott Gotkine, who intercepted party leadership on their way out of the party’s subdued election headquarters.</p><p>Grabbed quick word w/Herzog: did he win? &quot;We r working on it. We definitely have a v good chance.&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelElections?src=hash">#IsraelElections</a> <a href="http://t.co/1T4Hsoba4j">pic.twitter.com/1T4Hsoba4j</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:40:04.628Z">6.40pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>“A long and nail-biting story” of bargains and bickering</strong> is what Guardian Middle East editor Ian Black (<a href="https://twitter.com/ian_black">@ian_black</a>) predicts for the next chapter of Israel’s future.</p><p>On the basis of normally accurate exit polls – and the mood in party headquarters – Israeli analysts said it was more likely that the Likud’s <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/binyamin-netanyahu">Binyamin Netanyahu</a>, the current prime minister, will end up again getting the top job, over the Labour leader, Isaac Herzog, who had run as head of the new Zionist Union list – and campaigned on a slogan of “change and hope”.</p><p><strong>Beyond that, multiple combinations are possible.</strong> The 13-seat showing for the United Arab List of Ayman Odeh suggested it won wide support from the non-Jewish 20% of Israel’s population, but not enough to guarantee a Herzog-led coalition.</p><p>The shape of Israel’s next government will clearly make a difference to future prospects for peace in the Holy Land – however slim they appear. Netanyahu’s eve of poll pledge that he no longer believed in a two-state solution to the conflict is not necessarily his last word on the subject – though his previous committment to it was extemely vague and highly-qualified. “Netanyahu’s promises mean nothing,” commented Nahum Barnea, the country’s best-known political commentator. “They were written on ice on a very hot day.” </p><p>While there is no doubt that the Palestinians, Arab and western governments – including the US and EU – would be happier with Herzog. It will be some time yet before they can be certain of exactly what the future holds.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:29:49.361Z">6.29pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Kulanu’s Moshe Kahlon has also delivered a few remarks, possibly suggesting he will step back into Likud’s fold with a new Netanyahu government.</p><p>Kingmaker <a href="https://twitter.com/KahlonMoshe">@KahlonMoshe</a> hints he prefers unity gov't over narrow one w/ ultra-right parties: &quot;a time to unite, not to split apart&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraElex?src=hash">#IsraElex</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:26:14.442Z">6.26pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>ZIonist Union leaders now on stage singing Israeli national anthem <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/israelelections?src=hash">#israelelections</a> <a href="http://t.co/2UT1IOVOPN">pic.twitter.com/2UT1IOVOPN</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:23:49.153Z">6.23pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Adjusted polls now suggest that the conservative Yahad party may have enough votes to make it in the Knesset – crossing the minimum threshold to win four Knesset seats (3.25% of the electorate).</p><p>If Yahad wins four seats, Netanyahu has a much easier path to building a conservative government.</p><p>This is how close the Israeli elections are: new poll shows Yishai's party just getting in w/ 3 seats, enough to ensure Netanyahu is PM.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:20:22.891Z">6.20pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Isaac Herzog is delivering his first remarks since exit polls reported a virtual tie with Binyamin Netanyahu’s Likud party, which likely has a better chance of forming a coalition to retain control of the government. </p><p>“Bravo, bravo,” he tells the crowd, “today we scored an extraordinary achievement.”</p><p>Breaking Herzog does not concede race: Calls on parties to form a &quot;socioeconomic reconcilitation government&quot; led by him.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:14:57.590Z">6.14pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Palestinian leaders plan to press on with their charges that Israel committed war crimes</strong>, saying they will bring the case forward in the International Criminal Court. The Associated Press translates comments from Saeb Erekat:</p><p>“We call upon the international community to support our efforts to join the international treaties and our effort in the ICC,” said Erekat.</p><p>“What Netanyahu is doing and stating are war crimes and if the international community wants peace it should make Netanyahu accountable for his acts,” he said.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:10:58.328Z">6.10pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Should he reconstruct a coalition and retain power, Netanyahu’s recent surge to the right on issues such as the Palestinian territories could mean a newly exacerbated era of strained relations and partisan divides between Israel and its allies.</p><p>If Netanyahu forms a coalition w/right-wing parties, US/EU will have to react to his comments that he would not allow a Palestinian State.</p><p>Netanyahu must choose: Stable right wing coalition w no intl legitimacy or unstable moderate gov that could prevent further isolation.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:06:49.451Z">6.06pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>President Reuven Rivlin has indicated he will seek a national unity government </strong>– of Likud and Zionist Union – contra the wishes of both Netanyahu and Herzog, my colleague Peter Beaumont reports from Jerusalem.</p><p>Rivlin, whose constitutional role is to invite the leader most likely to form a stable coalition, said: “I am convinced that only a unity government can prevent the rapid disintegration of Israel’s democracy and new elections in the near future.”</p><p>Political analyst Avrahan Diskin of the Hebrew University predicted that the most likely outcome would see Kahlon come out in support of a Netanyahu government.</p><p>“It is quite clear Kahlon is the key person,” he said. “What has happened is that we had the atmosphere of a neck-and-neck race. And we we know that when you have a neck and neck race it increasing the turn out for the two leading parties with them gaining power from the other satellite parties.” <br /></p><p>Ahmed Tibi, who was standing on the Arab Israeli Joint List, which has brought together four parties representing Palestinian citizens of Israel, said: “It is disappointing that the public did not want to change the reality.” He added that the Joint List would sit down with left-leaning and centrist parties to see if there was a coalition to keep Netanyahu out of power.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T22:01:15.432Z">6.01pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Intent to continue the drama, Netanyahu and Herzog will soon stage competing speeches from their respective, awkwardly close base camps. </p><p>Herzog &amp; Netanyahu expected to give speeches before midnight - roughly 10 mins from now. Their elxn night HQs are next door to each other.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T21:56:32.601Z">5.56pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>A quick summary of the Israeli election in the aftermath of the first exit poll results.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T21:51:56.093Z">5.51pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Metaphor.</strong></p><p>Awkward traffic jam as Likud and Kulanu supporters try to get into lot both events share. An omen?</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T21:38:21.221Z">5.38pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Horse trading and incompatible personalities are already in the equation for Netanyahu and Herzog </strong>as they court and shun their colleagues in the Knesset. </p><p>The BBC’s Michael Shuval says Shas’ handful of seats could be in play for either party – but that he’s heard Netanyahu doesn’t want to work with former journalist Yair Lapid. </p><p>Netanyahu &amp; Herzog called Shas' <a href="https://twitter.com/ariyederi">@ariyederi</a> &amp; asked to meet w him tomorrow. He agreed to both requests. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraeElex?src=hash">#IsraeElex</a></p><p>Deputy transport minister <a href="https://twitter.com/TzipiHotovely">@TzipiHotovely</a> to BBC: No unity gov &amp; I don't think Netanyahu wants <a href="https://twitter.com/LapidAtid">@LapidAtid</a> in his coalition. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraeElex?src=hash">#IsraeElex</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T21:33:39.465Z">5.33pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Netanyahu is working in earnest now to solidify a conservative bloc</strong>, reports Haaretz’s Noga Tarnopolsky.</p><p>Netanyahu says he is talks to form right-wing-orthodox coalition, reports <a href="https://twitter.com/idobenbaji">@idobenbaji</a>. Spoke with Bennett, Dery, Litzman, Kahlon.</p><p>Warning: These exit polls are very rough estimates based on vote until 8:30 pm, 90 min before voting ended.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T21:23:54.324Z">5.23pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>In addition to the high turnout of more than 70%, another thing for Americans to consider.</p><p>The next Knesset will have a record 30 women according to the polls, calculates <a href="https://twitter.com/amit_segal">@amit_segal</a>. Congress can only dream of being 1/4 women.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T21:18:58.294Z">5.18pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>With the election shifting quickly into a phase of backroom deals and contentious phonecalls, my colleague Peter Beaumont (<a href="https://twitter.com/petersbeaumont">@petersbeaumont</a>) supplie<strong>s a refresher course on the parties in play:</strong></p><p>The last government was an awkward team of rivals: an electoral alliance between Netanyahu’s Likud and the largely Russian immigrant constituency represented by the pugnacious minister <strong>Avigdor Lieberman</strong>. This time round Lieberman’s <strong>Yisrael Beiteinu</strong> is no longer in alliance with Netanyahu and suffering badly at the polls after the revelation that police are investigating widespread allegations of corruption. </p><p>The electoral maths of Israel’s coalition-building suggests Netanyahu can potentially form a right/far-right coalition with <strong>Naftali Bennett</strong> (whose <strong>Jewish Home</strong> party represents the religious right and settlers) and the ultra-orthodox parties, reaching the key parliamentary threshold of 61 seats.</p><p>A second big question will be whom several smaller parties decide to recommend to form a government the day after polling. <strong>Lapid</strong> and <strong>Moshe Kahlon</strong> – a former Likud minister now heading his own party – are expected to be the kingmakers. While Lapid has said he will not back Netanyahu, Kahlon has not given any indication who he might favour in a coalition.</p><p>Another wild card is the Israeli-Arab joint list led by <strong>Ayman Odeh,</strong> which has united four rival parties parties for the first time and which polls suggest could be the third-largest party in the Knesset. Last week, Odeh told the Guardian his party’s main priority was to prevent Netanyahu’s re-election.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T21:07:12.875Z">5.07pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Turnout turned out large after all.</strong></p><p>MT <a href="https://twitter.com/AmichaiStein1">@AmichaiStein1</a>: <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash">#Israel</a>: final Voter turnout reached 71.8% - up 4% from 2013 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelElections?src=hash">#IsraelElections</a>&quot;</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T21:05:15.814Z">5.05pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Haaretz political analyst Chemi Shalev refuses not understate the importance of Kahlon, colorfully.</p><p>Kachlon is the fat lady, if he'll excuse me, and until he sings, it ain't over (e.g. demanding national unity WITH ROTATION)</p><p>Kachlon tells Herzog and Netanyahu: Let's wait for final results. Even if he winds up with Bibi, he's going to make him sweat.</p><p>Without Kachlon, Netanyahu and Herzog have nothing but each other.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:58:53.237Z">4.58pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Reuters’ Dan Williams has the first comment from Naftali Bennett, whose far-right Jewish Home Party suffered losses at Netanyahu’s gain:</p><p>&quot;The nationalist camp won!&quot; <a href="https://twitter.com/naftalibennett">@NaftaliBennett</a> tells supporters, adding he agreed with <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu">@Netanyahu</a> to enter accelerated Israeli coalition talks.</p><p>Bizzare. <a href="https://twitter.com/naftalibennett">@naftalibennett</a> praises his camp (religious-zionists) for not voting for him but for <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu">@netanyahu</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:57:03.239Z">4.57pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Arab Joint List leader Ayman Odeh has vowed to keep Netanyahu out of office,</strong> saying “we will prevent the right from forming the next government” – although to do so he may have to join a coalition with Herzog’s Zionist Union, against his earlier promise to stay out of any coalition.</p><p><strong>Israeli Arab voter turnout at 67-68% up from 54% in 2013, </strong>according to what a Joint List spokesperson has told Mairav Zonszein. The Joint List appear to be the third-largest party in the Knesset, according to the early exits.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:51:31.308Z">4.51pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu has declared the early exit poll results “<a href="https://twitter.com/DanWilliams/status/577933371692707840">a great victory</a>”. </strong></p><p>Against all odds:a great victory for the Likud. A major victory for the people of Israel!</p><p>Quite how incumbent Netanyahu claims a &quot;great victory&quot; ending neck and neck with his main rival is a bit beyond me.</p><p>Israeli kingmaker Moshe Kahlon told Netanyahu, Herzog he'd make his decision (who he'll go with - either or both), once final results are in</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:41:13.842Z">4.41pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>“People are singing, ‘Bibi, King of Israel,’”</strong> the Jersualem Post’s Lahar Harkov <a href="https://twitter.com/LahavHarkov/status/577931264860160001">says</a> – even though there remain hours before votes are fully counted and possibly weeks before Netanyahu can cement a coalition that keeps him in power.</p><p>Netanyahu supporters popping champagne at Likud election HQ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelElection?src=hash">#IsraelElection</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash">#Israel</a> (via <a href="https://twitter.com/brunonota">@brunonota</a>) <a href="http://t.co/1hCtaw5eY8">pic.twitter.com/1hCtaw5eY8</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:37:25.180Z">4.37pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>The Zionist Union have not given up hope</strong>, the BBC’s Michael Shuval says. Herzog has said he will speak in about an hour.</p><p>1st reax from <a href="https://twitter.com/ZionistUnion">@ZionistUnion</a>: Likud is misleading. Right bloc shrunk. All open until final results come in &amp; we'll know what gov we can form.</p><p>Breaking: The cars are about to leave <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu">@Netanyahu</a>'s official residence for the victory party in Tel Aviv. He wants an early victory speech.</p><p>The loss of 4 seats for Yishai complicates Bibi's path to a coalition. He needs to please a lot of parties.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:33:23.771Z">4.33pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>And journalist Mairav Zonszein points out that t<strong>he odds of coalition building are against Herzog’s Zionist Union compared to the more natural (and conservative) blocs with which Netanyahu’s Likud can work.</strong></p><p>Netanyahu will be the next Prime Minister. Zionist Union claims there is still a chance Kahlon's Kulanu will choose to support it instead</p><p>Netanyahu will be the next Prime Minister. Zionist Union claims there is still a chance Kahlon's Kulanu will choose to support it instead</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:32:20.907Z">4.32pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Haaretz’s Anshel Pfeffer reports that Netanyahu has moved on from calling the leader whose party he won over and<strong> will now try to persuade free agent Moshe Kahlon and his centrist Kulanu party.</strong></p><p>Netanyahu calls Bennett in what was likely a short and sharp consolation. Next call to Kahlon is going to be much trickier and inconclusive.</p><p>At this point, with Likud and ZU probably tied what matters more is now is how smaller parties do- they will determine who becomes PM.</p><p>The fight for Kahlon begins.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:26:49.647Z">4.26pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>The gears of coalition building are in motion</strong>, the Jerusalem Post’s Gil Hoffman reports.</p><p>Breaking: <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu">@Netanyahu</a> is calling <a href="https://twitter.com/naftalibennett">@naftalibennett</a> right now to ask him to form a right-wing govt says source outside Netanyahu's office door!</p><p>The Zionist Camp HQ has turned into Kulanu, with half the supporters smoking outside and debating if he'll support Herzog or not.</p><p>Netanyahu gained by devouring Bennett. He keeps the largest party in the Knesset, but the smaller right is an obstacle to strong coalition.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:22:48.206Z">4.22pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>The early result of 27 seats for Netanyahu is being hailed as a major victory for his campaign</strong>. Haaretz’s Barak Ravid:</p><p>Netanyahu fought like a lion, Herzog played naively and weakly. It's a tie</p><p>Bibi is pretty good at what he does, it has to be said.</p><p>A virtual tie between Netanyahu and Herzog, 27-27. A long night is upon us in Israel.</p><p>Either Netanyahu or Herzog could form coalition at this point. Stressful weeks of negotiations ahead before Israel ha a new government.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:04:04.856Z">4.04pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Israeli media’s first exit polls are coming in, and they are close and not altogether consistent between the various channels. </p><p>Channel 1 – Channel 2 – Channel 10</p><p>Exit polls a mess - Channel 10 calls tie 27-27/ Channel 1 25-22 to Herzog/ Channel 2 28-27 to Likud</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T20:00:28.086Z">4.00pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>The BBC’s Michael Shuval and Haaretz’s Anshel Pfeffer are at Likud’s headquarters, where the mood has turned cheery.</p><p>5 mins ahead of exit polls. Smiling faces at Likud headquarters in Tel-Aviv. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraeElex?src=hash">#IsraeElex</a> <a href="http://t.co/xPn33lox47">pic.twitter.com/xPn33lox47</a></p><p>Getting ready for the exit polls at Likud HQ. Everyone seems very certain Netanyahu is winning a 4th term. <a href="http://t.co/e6K9xblVYT">pic.twitter.com/e6K9xblVYT</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T19:55:19.226Z">3.55pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Even as time on the clock has run out, <strong>Netanyahu has pressed to prevent voters from defecting from his Likud party to centrist factions</strong>, Peter Beaumont (<a href="https://twitter.com/petersbeaumont">@petersbeaumont</a>) reports from Jerusalem:</p><p>The political parties continued to maneuver in the last few hours of the campaign for ways to leverage a last few seats in a tightly fought campaign with Binyamin Netanyahu’s Likud condemning a decision by the Israeli electoral commission to block a live press conference he had planned to give late afternoon.</p><p>With just under an hour to go before voting ends, Netanyahu continued to try and shore up his Likud base amid anecdotal evidence that former supporters in a number of areas had been defecting to the new centrist Kulanu party led by former Likud minister Moshe Khalon.</p><p>Despite predictions earlier in the day of a higher than usual turn out – which analysts suggested could count against Netanyahu – the pace of voting slowed during the afternoon with the number of voters apparently only slightly ip on the last election in 2013. According to the central elections committee the voter turn out four hours before polls closed was up just under 2%.</p><p>A key issue is likely to be which way undecided voters swing, with some 15% of voters still undecided going into the day of the election.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T19:51:13.635Z">3.51pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>As we tick down along the final minutes before polls close, Peter Beaumont (<a href="https://twitter.com/petersbeaumont">@petersbeaumont</a>), the Guardian’s Jerusalem correspondent, <strong>offers a briefing on the main issues on voters’ minds.</strong></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T19:44:12.871Z">3.44pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Let the predictions begin.</p><p>I will make just one prediction before the exit polls. Tonight/tomorrow morning we will have 2 victory speeches and no coalition.</p><p>Here's my prediction: An Ashkenazi male who went to high school in the north-east of the U.S. will win.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T19:38:29.879Z">3.38pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Before polls close and exit numbers begin to trickle in, a summary of Israel’s snap election as it’s happened so far.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T19:24:00.657Z">3.24pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>In contrast to the nervous optimism at the Zionist Union headquarters, nary a Likud official in attendance at the Likud’s base campe, says Buzzfeed’s Sheera Frenkel.</p><p>At Likud Party headquarters hundreds of journalists and not a politician in site. Lots of the media interviewing the media.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T19:12:48.370Z">3.12pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Journalist Gregg Carlstrom from within the base of the Zionist Union as the clock winds down on the polls.</p><p>Zionist Camp HQ: bad dance music, crowds of people standing awkwardly in the middle. It's basically a bar mitzvah. <a href="http://t.co/1xOkSwrqQg">pic.twitter.com/1xOkSwrqQg</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T19:01:01.568Z">3.01pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>“It’s the falafel, stupid!”</strong> might be the Israeli equivalent of an American political strategist’s<a href="http://www.iop.harvard.edu/it%E2%80%99s-economy-stupid-2"> famous maxim</a> about how voters vote. </p><p>More than Gaza, Iran or Netanyahu himself,<strong> inequality and </strong><strong>the soaring cost of living are on many Israelis’ minds,</strong> the Guardian’s Peter Beaumont (<a href="https://twitter.com/petersbeaumont">@petersbeaumont</a>) reports from Jerusalem.</p><p>Wearing an Adidas sports cap, Ronen Ratner says he has two jobs. On the minimum wage, he says: “An hour’s work is enough to buy a plate of falafel. The basic problem is the cost of living. It is very expensive to live here.” <br /></p><p>Hillel Konigsberg, a driver who injured his arm two and a half months ago and become unable to work, has struggled to make ends meet and feed his wife and baby. “We are all facing the same problems,” he says, disclosing he has begged for food on Facebook.</p><p>Netanyahu’s response has been either to attempt to avoid the issue or distract from it. Following the report on high housing costs, he was widely lambasted for responding on Twitter with remarks about Iran. “When we talk about housing prices, about the cost of living, I do not for a second forget about life itself. The biggest threat to our life at the moment is a nuclear-armed Iran.”</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T18:45:31.198Z">2.45pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>As of 8pm local time – with plenty of time left for Israelis to vote – voter turnout has reached 65.7% and surpassed its corresponding level in 2013, of 63.9%.</p><p>Turnout is now at its highest since the 1999 election, Tablet’s Yair Rosenberg <a href="https://twitter.com/yair_rosenberg">points out</a>, and the Jerusalem Post’s political correspondent Gil Hoffman shames Americans a little for their lack of electoral enthusiasm.</p><p>Voter turnout passes up turnout from 2 years ago at this time. Already 65.7%. That # will never happen in the US! And there's 2 hours left!</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T18:40:13.749Z">2.40pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>The White House has kept mum on the election in Israel,</strong> in line with the policy that k<a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/03/obama-goes-on-offensive-ahead-of-netanyahus-speech-to-congress">ept President Obama from meeting Netanyahu earlier this month</a> in Washington DC – and that fueled speculation about bad relations between the two leaders.</p><p>Josh Earnest toed that line again today, declining to comment even on the fact that Herzog’s policies are far more amenable to Obama’s than Netanyahu’s, which now include rejections of both a two-state solution and a proposed deal over Iran’s nuclear program. “I’m going to refrain from opining on that admittedly relevant observation,” he said.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T18:18:03.145Z">2.18pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>There are less than two hours left before polls close, </strong>and Likud and the Zionist Union are pleading with Israelis to vote while they still can. </p><p>The BBC’s Lyse Doucet reports that<a href="https://twitter.com/bbclysedoucet/status/577896066751688704"> Israeli media are suggesting</a> this could be the closest election in years and that nerves are fraying.<br /></p><p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash">#Israel</a> Ch 2 says Zionist Union worried about <a href="https://twitter.com/netanyahu">@netanyahu</a> 11th hour media blitz. Did more interviews than in last 6 yrs. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IsraelElections?src=hash">#IsraelElections</a></p><p><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israel?src=hash">#Israel</a> Ch 2 already saying estimations point to very tight race Likud &amp; Zionist Union <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Israelelections?src=hash">#Israelelections</a></p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T18:12:56.187Z">2.12pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>How could the election shake out? </strong>My colleague Alberto Nardelli parses the math(s) of a few possible outcomes for coalition building. Netanyahu’s Likud or Herzog’s Zionist Union would need 61 seats to form a new government.</p><p>On the right, there’s economy minister Naftali Bennett’s <strong>Jewish Home</strong>, a fervently religious, pro-settler party with 12 seats predicted; foreign minister Avigdor Lieberman’s <strong>Yisrael Beiteinu</strong>, a secular and hawkish party with five seats predicted; and <strong>Yachad</strong>, a rightwing party made up of defectors of the other groups with five seats predicted. With this bloc Netanyahu would have 43 seats, believing the polls.</p><p><strong>Does this mean Netanyahu will definitely be returned as prime minister?</strong><br /></p><p>Not necessarily. With so many moving parts, the election result remains uncertain.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T17:44:45.430Z">1.44pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Of Israel’s 5.8 million eligible voters, 1.7 million are Israeli-Arabs. In 2013, 67.8% of the total population turned out to vote; of eligible Israeli-Arabs, 56% voted.</p><p>Israel's <a href="https://twitter.com/Channel2News">@Channel2News</a> reports a slight rise in average Israeli Arab voter turnout thus far - but nothing dramatic</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T17:35:12.972Z">1.35pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Netanyahu has opted for a bit of last-minute theatrics, </strong>posting a provocative message on Facebook about Arab voters “heading to the polling stations in droves” and being <a href="https://twitter.com/sheeraf/status/577865160250957825">stymied in his attempt</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelShuval/status/577879806882148352">to broadcast a press conference</a>, after Israel’s elections committee stepped in. Mairav Zonszein (<a href="https://twitter.com/MairavZ">@MairavZ</a>) reports from Jaffa for the Guardian.</p><p>Following reports that 10 % of Israeli Arabs had already voted by noon, compared with 3% at the same time in 2013, Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu posted a panicked and incendiary status on Facebook late morning on Tuesday, urging his constituency to go out and vote. “The right-wing government is in danger. Arab voters are heading to the polling stations in droves” he wrote. “Left-wing NGOs are sending them over in buses.”</p><p>By midday there were already lines out the door at polling stations in the northern Israeli Arab towns of Sakhnin and Arraba, as well as in Jaffa, near Tel Aviv, with some reporting a significant rise in Israeli-Arab voter turnout compared with the previous election. </p><p>Michael Aboromanh, a Christian Arab from Jaffa in his 30s, voted for Herzog. “The country needs change and the only way to guarantee that change is to vote Buji [Herzog].”</p><p>There were also some first time voters. A 26-year old resident of Jaffa who preferred to remain nameless said he had never voted before because it “wasn’t interesting. It’s good they joined up, it’s worth voting now.”</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T17:22:04.605Z">1.22pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Turnout is <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelShuval/status/577876964167405568">about 1% lower </a>than in 2013 with only a few hours left of open polls, Haaretz columnist and American-Israeli historian Gershom Gorenberg reports.</p><p>Turnout as of 6 pm: 54.6%. Bit below 2013, higher than any other year since 1999. Possible will climb after sundown on excellent picnic day</p><p>Surprisingly, turnout so far slightly lower than average and despite all the Joint List hype no signs of higher turnout among Israeli-Arabs</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T17:13:01.269Z">1.13pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Who is Isaac Herzog</strong>, the man poised to prevent Binyamin Netanyahu from his fourth term as prime minister of Israel? </p><p>“The scion of a powerful and wealthy political dynasty,” writes Guardian Middle East editor Ian Black (<a href="https://twitter.com/ian_black">@ian_black</a>), Herzog is a Labor-party veteran with experience as minister of housing and social services – and a foil to his “ security-obsessed” and effusively conservative opponent, Netanyahu.</p><p>Bland, bespectacled, and smartly suited, Herzog is handicapped by a reedy voice and a geeky and uncharismatic manner, not helped by his nickname – Booji – which his mother Aura has explained referred to his doll-like appearance as a child.”</p><p>“Herzog’s Zionist Union alliance with a small party led by the former foreign minister, Tzipi Livni, straddles the centre-left ground of a fragmented political system and a divided society. It has little appeal, as the name suggests, for Israel’s Palestinian minority.</p><p>“In a country where national service is mandatory for Jews and military experience still matters, Herzog recently tried to burnish his image by mobilising former comrades-in-arms to tell stories of his time in an intelligence unit in the late 1970s, when he rose to the rank of major.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T16:56:49.511Z">12.56pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p>Ayman Odeh, leader of the Arab Joint List party, having cast his ballot at the polls. In an interview last week with the Guardian’s Peter Beaumont (<a href="https://twitter.com/petersbeaumont">@petersbeaumont</a>), Odeh said Netanyahu’s government has “undermined democracy and increased incitement against Arabs”. </p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T16:42:05.046Z">12.42pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>If no one wins outright, how does Israel’s electoral system work</strong>, you might ask?</p><p>Israelis are voting for seats in the 120-seat Knesset, the country’s parliamentary organ, but unlike in the US they vote for party lists, rather than individual candidates. <strong>Ministers will be elected through proportional representation, </strong>and parties must have 3.25% of the vote (four seats) to be represented in parliament.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T16:22:05.407Z">12.22pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>“Bibi is suddenly looking beatable,”</strong> my colleague Phoebe Greenwood (<a href="https://twitter.com/pagreenwood">@pagreenwood</a>) reports from Israel, asking in a video dispatch whether this week’s general election in Israel could be the end for the “Teflon prime minister” at the hands of an opposition that unites former security chiefs and liberal secularists.</p><p class="block-time published-time"> <time datetime="2015-03-17T16:05:27.336Z">12.05pm <span class="timezone">ET</span></time> </p><p><strong>Welcome to our coverage of Israel’s 2015 elections</strong>, the culmination of two bitter campaigns that have billed the race as a referendum on the nation’s future.</p><p>Prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/16/israels-election-the-guardian-briefing">called snap elections </a>after <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2015/feb/26/aid-agencies-sound-alarm-on-gaza-amid-fears-rebuilding-could-take-a-century">a summer of war</a>, <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2015/jan/22/obama-declines-meet-netanyahu-during-march-visit-white-house">strained relations</a> with allies and <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/mar/07/israel-netanyahu-election-campaign-cost-living-housing-iran-bombs">growing economic inequality</a>, but his bid for quick re-election with a new coalition has given way to a “<a href="https://twitter.com/bbclysedoucet/status/577854302275776513">wide open</a>” election, as one Israeli minister put it. Netanyahu’s opposition united in recent months and found viable allies in the Knesset, Israel’s parliamentary body, and the prime minister has found himself trailing in the last opinion polls before the vote.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2015/mar/17/israel-elections-netanyahu-herzog-voters-coalition-knesset">Continue reading...</a>IsraelMiddle East and North AfricaWorld newsBinyamin NetanyahuPalestinian territoriesGabonWed, 18 Mar 2015 09:43:53 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2015/mar/17/israel-elections-netanyahu-herzog-voters-coalition-knessetPhotograph: Amir Cohen/ReutersIsraeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu claims victory.Photograph: screengrab Haaretz.comPhotograph: Oded Balilty/APIsraeli prime minister Binyamin Netanyahu greets supporters at the Likud party’s election headquarters In Tel Aviv.Photograph: ReutersMoshe Kahlon (centre), head of the new centrist party Kulanu (All of Us), waves to supporters at party headquarters in Tel Aviv.Photograph: Ahmad Gharabli/AFP/Getty ImagesAyman Odeh, head of the Joint List, an alliance of four small Arab-backed parties, reacts to exit poll figures at his party’s headquarters in the city of Nazareth.Photograph: Mairav ZonszeinVoting in Jaffa.Photograph: Mairav ZonszeinVoting in Jaffa.Photograph: Joint ListAyman Odeh voting.Photograph: Joint ListAyman Odeh voting.Photograph: NIR ELIAS/REUTERSPhotograph: NIR ELIAS/REUTERSAlan Yuhas , Claire Phipps and Matthew Weaver2015-03-18T09:43:53ZGabon's La Tropicale cycle race – in pictureshttp://www.theguardian.com/world/bike-blog/gallery/2015/feb/24/gabon-la-tropicale-cycle-race-in-pictures
<p>The seven-day professional cycling race in the small west African country of Gabon is the most prestigious road cycling event in Africa, annually selecting professional Tour de France teams to race against the African continent’s most exciting new talent</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/bike-blog/gallery/2015/feb/24/gabon-la-tropicale-cycle-race-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>GabonCyclingCycling holidaysAfricaTour de FranceTue, 24 Feb 2015 09:59:25 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/bike-blog/gallery/2015/feb/24/gabon-la-tropicale-cycle-race-in-picturesPhotograph: RouleurPhotograph: RouleurAndy McGrath and Gautier Demouveaux for Rouleur2015-02-24T09:59:25ZOn the trail of Africa's biggest international bike racehttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/feb/23/la-tropicale-africa-biggest-international-bike-race
<p>At La Tropicale, the continent’s best cycling talent compete against some of Europe’s top teams in the 600 mile race across Gabon in 40C heat</p><p>The sun beats down on the town of Ndondj&eacute; while La Tropicale’s official Afrobeat song blasts on a loop from the PA. Dancers move in unison to the groove as cyclist Yauheni Hutarovich applauds their efforts from the podium.</p><p>On a road nearby, there’s chaos. The fourth stage of Africa’s largest international bike race – named after former president Omar Bongo’s late daughter, Amissa Bongo – is running late. The 500-person transfer across Gabon in planes, trains and automobiles the previous day was delayed, and the South Africa team manager is screaming at his Cameroonian peer: “Turn around, you’re holding everyone up!”</p><p>La Tropicale Amissa Bongo is at the vanguard of the cycling revolution</p><p>The biggest challenge for riders flying in from a European winter is the tropical humidity</p><p>La Tropicale Amissa Bongo is fast becoming an Eden for the continent’s cyclists</p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/bike-blog/gallery/2015/feb/24/gabon-la-tropicale-cycle-race-in-pictures">Gabon's La Tropicale cycle race – in pictures</a> </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/feb/23/la-tropicale-africa-biggest-international-bike-race">Continue reading...</a>GabonCyclingAfricaSouth AfricaFranceSportCyclingTour de FranceMon, 23 Feb 2015 05:00:06 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/feb/23/la-tropicale-africa-biggest-international-bike-racePhotograph: Gautier Demouveaux/RouleurThe peloton at La Tropicale Amissa Bongo, Africa’s biggest international bike race.Photograph: Gautier Demouveaux/RouleurThe peloton at La Tropicale Amissa Bongo, Africa’s biggest international bike race.Andy McGrath for Rouleur2015-02-23T05:00:06ZPlant genus named after Sir David Attenboroughhttp://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/feb/04/plant-genus-named-after-sir-david-attenborough
<p>Key taxonomical classification of rare plant with fleshy flowers discovered in the rainforest of Gabon in central Africa is named after British naturalist </p><p>Grasshoppers, shrimps, spiders and other creatures have all been named after Sir David Attenborough, but now a whole genus of endangered plants will bear the naturalist’s name.</p><p>Identified by a team of researchers in Gabon, a renowned botanical hotspot, the <em>Sirdavidia</em> flowering plants are believed to be the first plant genus – a taxonomical ranking one step above a species – named after the broadcaster. </p><p> <span>Related: </span><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/environment/gallery/2014/jul/31/species-named-after-sir-david-attenborough-in-pictures">Species named after Sir David Attenborough - in pictures</a> </p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/feb/04/plant-genus-named-after-sir-david-attenborough">Continue reading...</a>WildlifeEnvironmentPlantsScienceDavid AttenboroughTelevision & radioBiologyGabonAfricaEndangered speciesEndangered habitatsIUCN red list of endangered speciesTrees and forestsWed, 04 Feb 2015 16:13:34 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/environment/2015/feb/04/plant-genus-named-after-sir-david-attenboroughPhotograph: Dr Thomas Couvreur<em>Solannona</em>, a newly-identified plant in the genus <em>Sirdavidia</em>, named after David Attenborough. The plant has a distinct shape, with red petals and up to 19 bright yellow stamen forming a cone.Photograph: Dr Thomas Couvreur<em>Solannona</em>, a newly-identified plant in the genus <em>Sirdavidia</em>, named after David Attenborough. The plant has a distinct shape, with red petals and up to 19 bright yellow stamen forming a cone.Adam Vaughan2015-02-04T16:13:34ZAfrica’s successes struggle to eclipse weary old tropes of suffering continenthttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec/23/africa-success-stories-struggle-eclipse-weary-old-tropes-suffering-continent
<p>Ebola, Islamist crimes and paucity of democratic states detract from upbeat message that Africa’s time has finally come</p><p>“It has never, ever been a good bet to bet against America, and America is betting on Africa. The idea, and the reality, are just tantalising. The possibilities are immense.”</p><p><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDuQsjGMK1g">These were the words of the US vice-president, Joe Biden</a> at the biggest gathering of African heads of state ever assembled by the White House. It was now, Biden insisted, an equal partnership. “The question was always what can we do <em>for</em> Africa? That’s no longer the question. The question is what can we do <em>with</em> Africa?”</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec/23/africa-success-stories-struggle-eclipse-weary-old-tropes-suffering-continent">Continue reading...</a>AfricaNigeriaSouth AfricaCentral African RepublicJoe BidenUS foreign policyBarack ObamaTanzaniaEbolaBob GeldofInternational Monetary Fund (IMF)Boko HaramAl-ShabaabSomaliaSouth SudanMalawiEthiopiaOscar PistoriusGabonTue, 23 Dec 2014 08:00:01 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec/23/africa-success-stories-struggle-eclipse-weary-old-tropes-suffering-continentPhotograph: Tanya Bindra/APPerceptions can be problematic: response in the US and elsewhere to the Ebola outbreak has bordered on hysterical, despite it being mainly concentrated in three of Africa’s 54 countries. Photograph: Tanya Bindra/APPhotograph: Tanya Bindra/APPerceptions can be problematic: response in the US and elsewhere to the Ebola outbreak has bordered on hysterical, despite it being mainly concentrated in three of Africa’s 54 countries. Photograph: Tanya Bindra/APDavid Smith, Africa correspondent2014-12-23T08:00:01ZThe weekend in pictureshttp://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2014/dec/21/the-weekend-in-pictures
<p>A selection of some of the best images from around the world this weekend including preparations for Christmas and the Harbin snow sculpture expo</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2014/dec/21/the-weekend-in-pictures">Continue reading...</a>World newsJapanAustralia newsBelgiumUS newsNorth KoreaGeorgiaEgyptGazaScotlandChinaSpainNetherlandsGabonIraqColombiaSun, 21 Dec 2014 16:21:57 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2014/dec/21/the-weekend-in-picturesPhotograph: The Asahi Shimbun via Getty ImagesPhotograph: The Asahi Shimbun via Getty ImagesJo Blason2014-12-21T16:21:57ZLetter from Gabon: rain reignshttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec/09/letter-from-gabon-africa-forests
Forests and national parks of central Africa provide the perfect place to monitor the impact of humans on the environment<p>Bulbous clouds darken the sky and a dusting of tropical leaves and fruits drifts downward from the canopy as our vehicle careens down the wide, red dirt road. Our driver Miki accelerates around a curve even as the passengers in the flat bed are jolted up and down like kernels of popcorn in a hot pan.The windshield view of gathering thunderheads paired with the bumping, thumping thrill ride brings to mind foolhardy tornado chasers.</p><p>It may be the rainy season – in a rainforest – but an oncoming storm has the power to spook and alarm Gabonese folks. “<em>C’est la bonne chance</em>,” says Miki, referring to our fortunate timing in completing the day’s fieldwork on a research transect just before the rains arrive. We are inside the Wang Chuan Timber Sarl, a Chinese logging concession in Gabon’s forested interior. My husband Cooper and I are studying the ecological relationships between plants and animals in tropical forests. The research will form the basis of Cooper’s doctoral dissertation, and I am delighted to be along for the ride.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec/09/letter-from-gabon-africa-forests">Continue reading...</a>GabonAfricaWorld newsTue, 09 Dec 2014 14:00:07 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec/09/letter-from-gabon-africa-forestsPhotograph: Minden Pictures/CorbisVines in the rainforest of Bateke Plateau national park, Gabon. Photograph: Minden Pictures/CorbisPhotograph: Minden Pictures/CorbisVines in the rainforest of Bateke Plateau national park, Gabon. Photograph: Minden Pictures/CorbisRachel Rosin2014-12-09T14:00:07ZRayo Vallecano’s Lass Bangoura leaves Guinea squad over Ebola fearshttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/09/ebola-rayo-vallecano-lass-bangoura-guinea
• Bangoura withdraws from Guinea international duty<br />• ‘I came back as I did not want problems with Rayo’<br /><a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2014/oct/09/ebola-disease-in-a-day-live" title="">• Tracking the Ebola virus outbreak: live coverage</a><p>The Rayo Vallecano forward Lass Bangoura has returned to Spain over fears he could catch the Ebola virus while on international duty with Guinea.</p><p>Guinea are playing their Africa Cup of Nations home qualifier against Ghana in Morocco due to the outbreak, but Bangoura reportedly withdrew from the squad over concerns about being in contact with Guinea-based staff and officials.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/09/ebola-rayo-vallecano-lass-bangoura-guinea">Continue reading...</a>Rayo VallecanoCelta VigoGabonEbolaWorld newsAfricaGuineaGabonFootballSportThu, 09 Oct 2014 14:57:56 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/oct/09/ebola-rayo-vallecano-lass-bangoura-guineaPhotograph: David Ramiro/EPARayo Vallecano's Guinea forward Lass Bangoura has returned to Spain due to fears over the Ebola outbreak in his home country. Photograph: David Ramiro/EPAPhotograph: David Ramiro/EPARayo Vallecano's Guinea forward Lass Bangoura has returned to Spain due to fears over the Ebola outbreak in his home country. Photograph: David Ramiro/EPAGuardian sport2014-10-09T14:57:56ZAfrica: homophobia is a legacy of colonialismhttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/apr/30/africa-homophobia-legacy-colonialism
<p>Anti-gay laws were introduced to Africa by Western colonialists. Now, as former colonisers recognise LGBT rights Africa is still stuck in the past, writes <a href="http://thinkafricapress.com/gender/colonial-legacies-africa-homophobia-finding-narrative-works-african-lgbt-movements-val-kalende?utm_content=buffer5e984&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_source=twitter.com&amp;utm_campaign=buffer">Val Kalende</a></p><p>At a time when more countries are moving towards inclusive <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/law/human-rights">human rights</a>, Africa is taking steps backwards. Backwards, that is, specifically on the issue of gay rights, though sadly not to before colonialism, the era in which anti-gay legislation has its roots.<br /></p><p>Most Africans don’t recognise homophobia as a colonial legacy even though before colonialism, many traditional cultures were tolerant of different sexualities and gender relations. For instance, in my tribe, the Ganda or <a href="http://www.uganda-visit-and-travel-guide.com/baganda-people.html">Baganda</a>, (Uganda’s largest ethnic group) women from the royal clan are addressed with male titles and may or may not be required to perform duties expected of women. More broadly, from the <a href="http://www.gurtong.net/Peoples/PeoplesProfiles/Azande/tabid/179/Default.aspx">Azande</a> of the Congo to the <a href="http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/63490/Beti">Beti </a>of Cameroon, and from the Pangwe of Gabon to the Nama of Namibia, there is ethnographic evidence of same-sex relationships in pre-colonial Africa.</p><p data-src="https://open-module.appspot.com/view?id=5744125232021504">Open contributions: <a href="https://witness.theguardian.com/assignment/535e45e4e4b094ccf58ee3b6" target="_blank">: how difficult is it to be LGBT in your country?</a></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/apr/30/africa-homophobia-legacy-colonialism">Continue reading...</a>AfricaUgandaKenyaCameroonDemocratic Republic of the CongoGabonNamibiaChristianityUS newsRwandaLGBT rightsWed, 30 Apr 2014 14:15:13 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/apr/30/africa-homophobia-legacy-colonialismPhotograph: Trevor Snapp/Trevor Snapp/CorbisUgandans demonstrate against homosexuality in the streets of Jinja, Uganda. Photograph: Trevor Snapp/CorbisPhotograph: Trevor Snapp/Trevor Snapp/CorbisUgandans demonstrate against homosexuality in the streets of Jinja, Uganda. Photograph: Trevor Snapp/CorbisPhotograph: Denis Farrell/APGay Pride Day in Soweto, South Africa. Denis Farrell/APPhotograph: Denis Farrell/APGay Pride Day in Soweto, South Africa. Denis Farrell/APVal Kalende, for Think Africa Press, part of the Guardian Africa Network2014-04-30T14:15:13ZGoalkeeper dies from head injuryhttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/apr/21/goalkeeper-dies-after-being-kicked-in-head
Player aged 30 received fatal injury during championship football game in Gabon<p>A team official says a goalkeeper has died after being kicked in the head during a championship tournament match in the west African country of Gabon.</p><p>Sylvain Azougoui of the AC Bongoville football club had just stopped a shot on goal, but the attacker lost his balance on the wet grass and stepped on the goalkeeper's head.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/apr/21/goalkeeper-dies-after-being-kicked-in-head">Continue reading...</a>FootballSportGabonAfricaWorld newsSun, 20 Apr 2014 23:28:23 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/apr/21/goalkeeper-dies-after-being-kicked-in-headAssociated Press2014-04-20T23:28:23ZEnergy companies sign deal allowing NSW farmers to say no to coal seam gashttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/mar/28/energy-companies-sign-deal-farmers-no-to-coal-seam-gas
<p>Land access deal means Santos and AGL cannot drill without farmers’ consent</p><p>Energy companies Santos and AGL have signed an agreement with farmers in NSW that will allow landholders to refuse coal seam gas activities on their properties.</p><p><a href="http://gallery.mailchimp.com/05fd03b35dc666929d2d35388/files/Agreed_Principles_of_Land_Access.pdf">The deal</a> will allow a farmer to say no to coal seam gas and bar entry to gas companies if permission is explicitly refused.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/mar/28/energy-companies-sign-deal-farmers-no-to-coal-seam-gas">Continue reading...</a>New South WalesEnvironmentAustralia newsMiningMiningGasGabonNew South Wales politicsCoalFri, 28 Mar 2014 06:56:39 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/mar/28/energy-companies-sign-deal-farmers-no-to-coal-seam-gasPhotograph: Bernadette SMITH/ Bernadette SMITH/Demotix/CorbisA woman protests against coal seam gas at the March in March rally in Sydney. Photograph: Bernadette Smith/Demotix/CorbisPhotograph: Bernadette SMITH/ Bernadette SMITH/Demotix/CorbisA woman protests against coal seam gas at the March in March rally in Sydney. Photograph: Bernadette Smith/Demotix/CorbisOliver Milman2014-03-28T06:56:39ZCentral African Republic leader faces pressure to quit amid bloodshedhttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/09/central-african-republic-leader-quit-michel-djotodia
Seleka rebel head Michel Djotodia could step down at regional summit over chaos which has left 1,000 dead and 1m displaced<p>The Central African Republic's interim leader, Michel Djotodia, is facing pressure to step down at a summit of regional leaders on Thursday because of his inability to halt the <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/dec/30/children-beheaded-mutilated-central-african-republic-violence-unicef" title="">bloodshed that has forced about a million people</a> to flee their homes.</p><p>Djotodia, who seized power in March at the head of the Seleka rebels, already lacked legitimacy in the eyes of other African governments.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/09/central-african-republic-leader-quit-michel-djotodia">Continue reading...</a>Central African RepublicAfricaWorld newsCongo BrazzavilleGabonEuropean UnionEuropeGlobal developmentMigration and developmentConflict and developmentThu, 09 Jan 2014 15:18:36 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jan/09/central-african-republic-leader-quit-michel-djotodiaBrahim Adji/AFP/Getty ImagesCentral African president Michel Djotodia (far right) with other regional leaders at a CEEAC summit on Thursday. Photograph: Brahim Adji/AFP/Getty ImagesBrahim Adji/AFP/Getty ImagesCentral African president Michel Djotodia (far right) with other regional leaders at a CEEAC summit on Thursday. Photograph: Brahim Adji/AFP/Getty ImagesMark Tran2014-01-09T15:18:36ZGlobal roundup: civil service news from Canada, Ireland, Gabon and Hong Konghttp://www.theguardian.com/public-leaders-network/2013/sep/14/civil-service-news-global
Shortfall in female world leaders, fraudulent civil servants arrested in Gabon, and Hong Kong officials praised by China<p>An <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/sep/06/gabon-fake-civil-servants-receiving-salaries" title="">investigation has revealed 3,000 fake civil servants</a> who receive monthly salaries from the government despite holding no official positions. Some suspects have been arrested, including fraudulent state employees with counterfeit diplomas and fake assignments, officials said. Gabon's civil service employs 70,000 workers serving a population of 1.5 million. The government launched an overhaul of its civil service in 2009 after estimating that there were up to 10,000 fake employees, costing the central African nation 24 billion CFA francs ($50.3m) in salaries a year.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/public-leaders-network/2013/sep/14/civil-service-news-global">Continue reading...</a>Public Leaders NetworkGabonQuebecIrelandHong KongCanadaSociety ProfessionalsSat, 14 Sep 2013 09:00:00 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/public-leaders-network/2013/sep/14/civil-service-news-globalOliver Weiken/EPAIn 2012 Gabon president Ali Bongo Ondimba announced new performance contracts for civil servants to tackle corruption. Photograph: Oliver Weiken/EPAEric Feferberg/AFPGabonese president Ali Bongo Ondimba in 2012 announced new performance contracts for civil servants in a bid to tackle corruption and trim down the sector. Photograph: Eric Feferberg/AFPOliver Weiken/EPAIn 2012 Gabon president Ali Bongo Ondimba announced new performance contracts for civil servants to tackle corruption. Photograph: Oliver Weiken/EPATamsin Rutter2013-09-14T09:00:00ZGabon has 3,000 fake civil servants receiving salaries, say prosecutorshttp://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/sep/06/gabon-fake-civil-servants-receiving-salaries
Corruption investigation uncovers 'mafia-like network' of beneficiaries holding no official state jobs in African nation<p>Prosecutors in Gabon say they have discovered evidence of 3,000 fake civil servants, each receiving monthly salaries despite holding no official positions.</p><p></p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/sep/06/gabon-fake-civil-servants-receiving-salaries">Continue reading...</a>GovernanceGlobal developmentGabonAfricaCorruption index and barometerWorld newsFri, 06 Sep 2013 12:30:08 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2013/sep/06/gabon-fake-civil-servants-receiving-salariesEric Feferberg/AFPGabonese president Ali Bongo Ondimba on a state visit to France. In 2012 he announced new performance contracts for civil servants in a bid to tackle corruption and trim down the sector. Photograph: Eric Feferberg/AFPEric Feferberg/AFPGabonese president Ali Bongo Ondimba on a state visit to France. In 2012 he announced new performance contracts for civil servants in a bid to tackle corruption and trim down the sector. Photograph: Eric Feferberg/AFPAfua Hirsch, west Africa correspondent and agencies2013-09-06T12:30:08ZDemand for ivory destabilising central Africahttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jun/18/demand-ivory-destabilising-central-africa
Widespread killing of elephants threatens economic prosperity and rule of law, warns African Development Bank<p><strong> </strong>The massacre of elephants has gone beyond being a problem for animal rights activists. It now concerns international institutions and governments at the highest level because it is perceived as a threat to political and economic stability in central Africa.</p><p>Last month, the matter drew the attention of the <a href="http://www.afdb.org/en/" title="">African Development Bank</a> in Marrakech, at an annual assembly that was also attended by African finance ministers. The bank's president, the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donald_Kaberuka" title="">Rwandan economist Donald Kaberuka</a>, presented a global action plan addressing the problem along with the <a href="http://www.wwf.org.uk/" title="">World Wildlife Fund</a>.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jun/18/demand-ivory-destabilising-central-africa">Continue reading...</a>AfricaWorld newsAnimalsAnimal welfareGlobal developmentWWFEnvironmentUnited NationsCameroonCentral African RepublicChadGabonTue, 18 Jun 2013 12:59:02 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jun/18/demand-ivory-destabilising-central-africaIFAW/EPAAn elephant that was found killed for its ivory in Cameroon. Photograph: IFAW/EPAIFAW/EPAAn elephant that was found killed for its ivory in Cameroon. Photograph: IFAW/EPALaurence Caramel2013-06-18T12:59:02ZCentral African Republic president and rebels to form coalition governmenthttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jan/11/central-african-republic-coalition-government
Unity government deal, agreed after days of intense talks, will allow François Bozizé to remain in office until 2016<p>The president of the Central African Republic and the rebels who sought to overthrow him have agreed to create a coalition government with the country's political opposition, a deal that will allow Fran&ccedil;ois Boziz&eacute; to remain in office until 2016, officials have said.</p><p>The announcement came after days of talks in Gabon, which were organised after an alliance of rebels groups swept through the north of the country and seized control of a dozen towns.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jan/11/central-african-republic-coalition-government">Continue reading...</a>Central African RepublicChadGabonAfricaWorld newsFri, 11 Jan 2013 16:47:57 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/jan/11/central-african-republic-coalition-governmentJoel Bouopda Tatou/APCentral African Republic president, François Bozizé, right, shakes hands with Michel Djotodia, leader of the Seleka rebel alliance, during peace talks in Libreville, Gabon. Photograph: Joel Bouopda Tatou/APJoel Bouopda Tatou/APCentral African Republic president, François Bozizé, right, shakes hands with Michel Djotodia, leader of the Seleka rebel alliance, during peace talks in Libreville, Gabon. Photograph: Joel Bouopda Tatou/APAssociated Press in Libreville2013-01-11T16:47:57ZInnovative practices could extend the reach of immunisation campaignshttp://www.theguardian.com/global-development-professionals-network/2012/nov/27/immunisation-campaigns-vaccines-africa
More lives in remote and conflict-hit areas of Africa could be saved by using solar fridges to store and supply vaccines<p>A yellow fever outbreak in Sudan's Darfur region shows the difficulties faced by immunisation teams operating in some of Africa's most remote and under-developed regions. Since October, 116 people have died in five regions of western Sudan – central, east, west, north and south Darfur, and some 460 people have been infected.</p><p>A yellow fever vaccination campaign has began in four of those regions, targeting some 2.4 million people. Darfur is still affected by serious instability since conflict broke out there in 2003 – hundreds of thousands of people have been displaced, the region is impoverished and has very basic infrastructure. One of the biggest obstacles is keeping the 'cold chain' intact; in Darfur temperatures can often reach well above 40C and vaccines can become obsolete if they are not kept in a temperature range of about 2-8C.</p> <a href="http://www.theguardian.com/global-development-professionals-network/2012/nov/27/immunisation-campaigns-vaccines-africa">Continue reading...</a>Global development professionals networkMalaria and infectious diseases - global development professionals networkHealthWorld newsWorld Health OrganisationGabonDarfurVaccines and immunisationSocietyGlobal developmentTue, 27 Nov 2012 13:04:05 GMThttp://www.theguardian.com/global-development-professionals-network/2012/nov/27/immunisation-campaigns-vaccines-africaDan Chung/GuardianA village health team member and community vaccinator, helps conducts an immunisation programme against the eight childhood killer diseases at Ojom heatlh centre in Katine, Uganda. Photograph: Dan Chung for the GuardianDan Chung/GuardianA village health team member and community vaccinator, helps conducts an immunisation programme against the eight childhood killer diseases at Ojom heatlh centre in Katine, Uganda. Photograph: Dan Chung for the GuardianCeleste Hicks2012-11-27T13:04:05Z